The Steelers’ New Coaching Search Boils Down To 1 Non-Negotiable Trait

The Pittsburgh Steelers have begun the search for the franchise's next head coach. It's only the fourth time since 1969 in franchise history. It's safe to wonder if the organization moves in this direction if the Wild Card loss to the Houston Texans doesn't happen in the way it does. The Steelers lost 30-6 in one of the most demoralizing fashions, with the Texans scoring 23 unanswered points in the fourth quarter. Had this game gone differently, the team might not be looking for a new head coach currently. Regardless, the Steelers will be essentially resetting the franchise, and there are plenty of candidates looking to become the team's new lead man.

Even though the Steelers are turning the page to a new era, there are some that believe the team is looking for someone similar to Mike Tomlin in terms of leadership style. On the latest episode of the Kaboly & Mack show, hosts Mark Kaboly and Chris Mack discussed who the Steelers could potentially hire as the next head coach, and during the discussions, Kaboly gave his opinion on what he believes the Steelers' leadership is looking for.

"I think what trumps anything, real quick, is, and I've heard this many times, and he said it again yesterday -- he's just looking for a leader, man," Kaboly said. "That's number one on the list. I mean, he wants a Mike Tomlin, Bill Cowher, Chuck Noll, leader of men. I know it's cliche, because the last coach said it. That's number one on their list. I truly believe, over anything else, if somebody walks in there and owns that room, and shows to them that they believe that this guy can go in there and stand in front of 90 guys and have their devout attention, that's the guy they're gonna hire. I mean, [Brian] Flores is that guy, to be honest with you. Most of the people are afraid of him when he was here for a year."

Kaboly's comment about leadership is an interesting one, considering who the Steelers have already requested interviews with. He specifically names Minnesota Vikings Defensive Coordinator Brian Flores, which considering his history with the team and that the Steelers have requested an interview with him specifically, shows that the potential of Flores being hired as the Steelers' next head coach certainly remains a possibility.

Even if the Steelers chose to hire someone other than Flores, it's clear that they are looking for someone who can show up and take command effectively, according to Kaboly. This would be a great approach to building the roster after essentially resetting it after the season ended, and could be a great start to revamping the culture in the locker room as well. The Steelers could be back on track sooner than expected to compete for Super Bowls, instead of simply competing to make the playoffs and hoping something legendary happens.

No matter who the Steelers choose to hire, whether from a defensive background or offensive background, being a leader is a powerful characteristic that would ensure the Steelers continue the streak of not firing a head coach. Nonetheless, the franchise should have patience with whoever they hire.

Steelers Have A Tough Road Ahead Regardless Of Next Head Coach Hire

Even with the focus on the hiring of the next head coach, whoever the Steelers choose to hire will have a long road ahead of them with regards to building the roster. Some players wanted to be here specifically to play for Tomlin, while other, established players didn't want to see him leave. With a new head coach entering, it will be a tough job to gain the players trust and rebuild the roster, despite the pieces already present. A strong leader would go a long way to accomplishing this goal.

What did you think about Kaboly's comments about the Steelers wanting a leader of men? Let us know in the comments below.

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